Tissue Removal

Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation

During
radiofrequency catheter ablation
, abnormal electrical circuits in the heart that generate harmful rhythms can be located and destroyed. A catheter is introduced through a vein and advanced until it reaches your heart. Then, electrodes are heated with a radiofrequency energy that subsequently destroys areas of the heart tissue that cause the arrhythmia. This procedure is most frequently used to treat
atrial flutter
,
atrial fibrillation
, or
ventricular tachycardia
.

Maze and Mini-Maze Procedures

The
Maze procedure
is a technique used to surgically treat atrial fibrillation (AF) that involves making several small incisions within the wall of the atria. This results in the formation of scar tissue that blocks the electrical impulses that cause the arrhythmia.

The Maze procedure may also be done as minimally invasive surgery, called
mini-Maze
. It only requires one or two small incisions in the chest.

Subendocardial Resection

In certain cases of a ventricular tachycardia, specific abnormalities within the heart muscle might be responsible for generating the arrhythmia. The removal of the scar tissue underneath the lining of the heart may prevent the arrhythmia from occurring.

Implanted Device

Pacemaker

If the sinoatrial node malfunctions or stops working, an artificial
pacemaker
can be implanted to generate regular impulses. Pacemakers are implanted during a minor procedure. A wire is attached to your heart either through a blood vessel or directly into the chest. The wire is also attached to the device. An incision is made, and the device is placed under your skin, usually near the collarbone.

These devices have power sources that last a long time. Nevertheless, they should be checked occasionally to make sure they are still working. Your cardiologist will give you instructions on the care and maintenance of your pacemaker or defibrillator.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.